West Virginia Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

West Virginia Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Licensure Process

The LSW is considered the entry-level license for social workers in West Virginia. They may perform duties within the scope of the practice of a provisional social worker, including:

1. Applying the social work theory, methodology, knowledge, and the professional use of self in the practice. That includes assessing, intervention, planning, counseling, evaluating, and case management supervision.
2. Participating in community organization activities designed to enhance civic functions and improve environmental responsiveness by addressing quality of life issues.
3. Participating in social advocacy activities to influence social service systems and policies in reducing disparities for disadvantaged and at-risk populations.
4. Developing and administration of programs for social service systems at an organizational level.
5. Doing training activities to assist clients in developing desirable skills to assist the less experienced social workers or enhance social functions.

An LSW can supervise a provisionally licensed social worker if they have both:

1. A baccalaureate or master’s degree in social work from an accredited program by the Council on Social Work Education
2. Two years of relevant work experience

If the applicant has been licensed in any other state as a social worker, they need to verify it in good standing from the applicable State Social Work Board.

Educational Requirements

The applicant for LSW is required to have a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from an accredited social work program. There are 10 in West Virginia, including Concord University, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. Here you can find all schools offering social work degree programs in West Virginia.

Experience Requirements

Lucky you! Application for an LSW does not require work experience. You can apply as long as you have the proper educational background and pass the examination.

Examination Requirements

To qualify as an LSW in West Virginia, you need to pass the basic level state social work examination by the Association of Social Work Boards. The organization is responsible for creating and overseeing all the examinations taken by social workers in the country.

Before taking the exam, it is recommended you download the Candidate Handbook. It contains information on what to expect in the exam.

After you send your application to the West Virginia Board of Social Work, you can proceed to register with ASWB. Wait for an authorization email to schedule your testing appointment. Review all the documents provided and then take the exam. The basic test has a fee of $230.

Documentation Requirements

You need to submit several documents to prove your qualifications. You have to:

• Complete the application form, which you can request from the social work board.
• Pay the applicable fees for the license.
• Provide proof of degree from an accredited social work program.
• Pass the ASWB basic level state social work examination.